Ikken Hissatsu: The Single Strike, Total Determination

In the world of Japanese martial arts, Ikken Hissatsu (一拳必殺) literally means: "To kill with a single strike." Although the word " kill " here it is symbolic, it expresses the idea of neutralize the opponent with a single decisive move —not by brutality, but by absolute mastery of distance, timing, and bodily energy .

This concept, central to many traditional styles, takes on a particular depth in the practice of Shorinjiryu and the Shishi-ryu , combining martial strategy and real battlefield awareness.

1. Full Hip Swing: Source of Power

In Shorinjiryu, the notion of complete hip swing - Or “Tai no Shinshuku” (contraction/extension of the body) — is fundamental. A blow must not only originate from the arm: it must arise from a chain starting from the anchors, the hips, passing through the trunk, and exploding through the appendicular limb.

2. Distance: “Reach” and pace control

The distance (or maai ) is another key in the realistic application of this principle. A decisive blow is useless if it cannot reach its target. This is why practitioners of Shorinjiryu and Shishi-ryu learn to extend their reach (reach) thanks to:

• a sliding step or rapid movement,
• a complete extension aligning the structures,

3. The mind facing several opponents

Ikken Hissatsu is not just about dueling. In a broader context—as taught by the Shishi-ryu and some forms of the bunkai Shorinjiryu — this principle becomes a philosophy of management of “chaos” . Each strike must be:

• economic (one hit for an opponent),
• decisive (no half measures),
• positional (the body must remain mobile, ready to turn or reposition itself to a new angle).

This logic is crucial against several opponents : we cannot afford to waste time or energy. Every attack must frees up space , breaks the opponent's rhythm , and allows stay in control of the triangle (the combat zone around you).

Ikken Hissatsu is not just a fantasy. It is a martial quest: that of perfect, sincere, just strike , which depends neither on anger nor brute force, but on a unified body, a clear mind, and a coherent strategy.

In Shorinjiryu and Shishi-ryu, this idea is manifested through constant training in precision, in power, tensing/relaxing muscles at the right time, and in the ability to react with full awareness in all directions.

A life of practice!